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Fools of Fortune

By William Trevor
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Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
Fools of Fortune by William Trevor explores the impact of war and tragedy on an Irish family. The story delves into themes of revenge, love, and the haunting effects of past secrets, starting from a heartbreaking event that changes everything. As the family's story unfolds, complex emotions and relationships intertwine, set against the backdrop of Ireland's turbulent history.
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Format: Paperback / softback
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

This book may appeal to you if you enjoy intense family dramas set against the backdrop of historical events, particularly those with elements of tragedy, betrayal, and the quest for personal justice. Readers who appreciate William Trevor's intricate storytelling and deep exploration of human emotions will likely find this narrative both haunting and compelling.

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Fools of Fortune

The Quintons have lived in the old house in Cork for hundreds of years. Though Anglo-Irish Protestant, they sympathize with the cause of independence and secretly fund Michael Collins' fighters. But one of their workers is an informer, and when he's murdered on their land, though they know nothing of it, the Black and Tans come seeking revenge.

Shortly after the First World War, an informer's body is found on the estate of the Quintons, a wealthy Irish family. The British Black and Tans, led by a zealous sergeant, torch the family home, killing Mr Quinton and his two daughters.

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

Murder and revenge during the Irish Civil War

The Quintons have lived in the old house in Cork for hundreds of years. Though Anglo-Irish Protestant, they sympathise with the cause of independence and secretly fund Michael Collins' fighters. But one of their workers is an informer to the British, and when he's murdered on their land, though they know nothing of it, the Black and Tans come seeking revenge.

Till now, young Willy Quinton has led a pleasant, cosseted life. But the murder of his father and sisters by British soldiers brings him to a point when he can only contemplate revenge himself. He sets off for Liverpool with hatred in his heart. Will he survive? Will the cycle ever be broken?

Fools of Fortune by William Trevor explores these themes with emotional depth, capturing the essence of a turbulent time in Irish history.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

Fools of Fortune by William Trevor is generally praised for its evocative depiction of an Irish family's demise set against the backdrop of political turmoil. Reviewers highlight Trevor's skill in character development and his ability to create a poignant narrative filled with emotional depth and historical detail. Many consider it a compelling and insightful exploration of love, loss, and the impact of violence on personal lives.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780241969496

Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 29 January 2015

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Penguin Books Ltd

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 14.0mm

Width: 129.0mm

Height: 198.0mm

Weight: 159g

Pages: 224

Collections

Fiction General Fiction Literary Fiction Penguin Books William Trevor

About the Author

William Trevor's novels have won the Whitbread Fiction Prize three times and been shortlister for the Booker Prize four times. Born in Co Cork, the son of a bank manager, he has lived in Devon for many years.

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